Empowering communities through faith-based training.
Join us in our mission to provide essential support and training for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated men, fostering successful reintegration and community involvement.
What Formerly Incarcerated Men are Saying
Governor Andy Beshear has highlighted Kentucky’s success in reducing recidivism rates, citing it as a key indicator of successful reentry programs for individuals leaving state custody.
Specifically, nearly 70% of individuals released from state custody in the past two years have not been re-incarcerated.
Kentucky has made remarkable strides in reducing its recidivism rate statewide, yet many rural communities have not fully shared in this success story. Lives on Mission is committed to extending these positive outcomes to every corner of our state by empowering rural areas with proven strategies to reduce reincarceration.
Our comprehensive model equips local communities with the tools, resources, and support systems necessary to help formerly incarcerated men successfully reintegrate into society. By partnering with us, your community can play a vital role in breaking the cycle of recidivism and creating lasting change in these men’s lives.
See life-changing stories from Lexington Rescue Mission’s archives
I am worth a second chance
The hardest part wasn’t finding a job or place to live – it was convincing people, including myself, that I was worth a second chance. My mentor told me that my past doesn’t define my future, and I had to learn to believe that.
Marcus Johnson, Released 2019
I needed to prove myself
Coming home after three years inside, I realized my daughter barely knew me and my community looked at me differently. I started volunteering at the local food bank, not because I had to, but because I needed to prove to myself that I could contribute something positive. Six months later, they offered me a full-time position, and now I’m the volunteer coordinator.
Anthony Williams, Released 2021
I kept showing up
I kept showing up to the workforce development program every day, even when I felt like giving up. The day I got hired, my supervisor said he was impressed by my persistence – that’s when I knew I was building something else.
David Rodriguez, Released 2020
I asked what I could do
The anger management classes I took gave me tools I never had before, but using them in the real world was the real test. When my landlord initially rejected my application, I could have reacted the old way, but instead I asked what I could do to prove my reliability. Two years later, I’m still in that apartment, and he’s become one of my strongest references for employment.
Robert Thompson, Released 2018
How can we support your journey?
We are here to assist you in any way possible. Your involvement can make a significant difference in the lives of those we serve.
To schedule a call with us, click the Connect with Us tab.
For more information, call us at (502) 219-2423, or email [email protected]
What is Lives on Mission Ministries?
Lives on Mission Ministries is dedicated to establishing faith-based training programs in rural jails and prisons across Kentucky. Our mission focuses on empowering formerly incarcerated men through in-jail and community reentry initiatives, ensuring they have the support needed for successful reintegration into society.
How can I get involved with your programs?
You can get involved by volunteering your time, skills, or resources to support our training programs. We welcome local Christian volunteers, teachers, and mentors who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of those in our communities.
What types of training do you offer?
We offer comprehensive training programs that include spiritual guidance, life skills development, mentoring, accountability and vocational training tailored to the needs of incarcerated individuals. Our goal is to equip them with the tools necessary for a successful transition back into society and to foster a supportive community around them.
Who can participate in your programs?
Our programs are designed for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated men seeking to reintegrate into society. We also encourage local Christian groups to participate in training and mentorship roles, creating a collaborative environment for growth and support.
What resources do you provide for local groups?
Together with local volunteers, we launch a weekly in-jail class to lead inmates to commit their lives to Jesus Christ, while working with the local team to begin a reentry program for formerly incarcerated men. We also provide links on our Resource Page to various organizations and materials available to assist local groups working in prison ministry and reentry programs.
How do you measure the success of your programs?
We measure success through participant feedback, recidivism rates, and the number of individuals successfully reintegrated into their communities. Continuous improvement is key, and we will adapt our programs based on the outcomes we observe.
This video includes short testimonials from inmates who graduated from the Stepping Up by FamilyLife® program. This program is one example of the amazing power of a Christian-based prison ministry program.
Here are five key benefits of a Christian-based, in-jail prison ministry to inmates:
- Emotional and Spiritual Support:
Prison ministries provide hope, comfort, and a sense of belonging, helping inmates cope with guilt, shame, loneliness, and despair through prayer, scripture, and fellowship. - Positive Behavioral Changes:
The teachings of forgiveness, accountability, and moral restoration often inspire inmates to adopt more respectful and compassionate attitudes, leading to improved behavior within the prison. - Restorative Purpose and Identity:
Inmates are encouraged to discover a new sense of purpose and identity beyond their crimes, fostering self-worth and encouraging them to make amends and seek personal growth. - Building Healthy Community:
Ministries create safe spaces for social interaction, support, and accountability. These relationships substitute destructive peer influences with positive Christian role models and a supportive community. - Lower Recidivism Rates:
Studies and anecdotal reports suggest that inmates who participate in faith-based programs are less likely to re-offend after release, as they often leave with stronger values, decision-making skills, and support networks.